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Des Lalor, Wind Engineer
Des Lalor is a Wind Engineer for ESB. He is responsible for providing technical expertise in all aspects of wind monitoring, wind farm design and energy yield assessments. Des holds a Bachelor degree in Civil & Environmental Engineering, a Masters degree in Wind Energy and is also a chartered engineer.
What were the main 'career decision' milestones in your life so far?
The main career decisions I have made so far are doing a Masters in Wind Energy and moving to ESB in 2010.
Who are the people who most influenced your career direction?
Paul Deane, a former classmate in UCC.
How did you go about getting your current job?
I applied to an advert via a recruitment agency. My experience at the time was a good match for the role required.
Describe a typical day?
It’s split half and half between the ‘people’ side and the technical side. Yesterday for example, I spent the morning working with a team on their yearly goals and I spent the afternoon getting up to speed on some of ESB’ plans regarding Solar energy.
What are the main tasks and responsibilities?
• Team management
• Designing wind farms and conducting cost benefit studies
• Buying wind turbines
What are the main challenges?
Energy projects including wind farms take years to develop. It can be many years before you see the fruits of your labour. Also, you may work a lot on a specific project, but it may not go ahead for various reasons.
What do you like most?
Working on Stephens Green and also getting on well with work colleagues.
Is there anything that isn't great?
IT problems.
What particular skills do you bring to your workplace?
I have good interpersonal skills and I’m comfortable with numbers.
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
Maths, English, Irish, Physics, Tech Drawing, Geography, French
What is your education to date?
I have a Masters Degree and I’m a chartered Engineer.
What aspects of your education have proven most important for your job?
My research Masters was great. It was very enjoyable, I learned a lot and it benefited me with my career.
What have been the most rewarding events in your career so far?
Building a team from a low starting point to the point where everybody is making a great contribution and enjoying their work.
What personal qualities do you have that helps you in your career?
I’m fairly positive, I enjoy my work and am interested in it. I’m very interested in people and how to bring out the best in them.
What is your dream job?
I’d like to combine my interest in energy with my interest in development work.
Does your job allow you to have a lifestyle you are happy with?
Yes, I have a little girl and another baby on the way so work/life balance is very important. I work from home one day a week.
What advice would you give to someone considering this job?
Go for it – it’s a great job.
What are the three most important personal characteristics required for the job?
• Diligence and attention to detail
• Ability to get on well with people
• Good problem solving abilities
What is your favourite music?
I saw a guy playing the hang and didgeridoo on holidays – it sounded great.
What is your favourite film?
The last king of Scotland.
What is your pet hate at work?
No milk in the fridge for my tea!
What is your star sign?
Leo
Have you undertaken, or do you plan to undertake any further training as part of your job?
Yes, I do ongoing training – I dedicate about 5% of my time to training.
What kinds of work experience would provide a good background for this position?
Any engineering consultancy work would be good as there is a lot of overlap between the different disciplines.
What is your current job title?
I am a chartered Engineer.
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